ACCORDING to the Euromonitor International Report Passport Flows Inbound and Outbound India, India’s businesses are fast becoming more international and increasingly seeking new and unexplored destinations across the globe, for meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (Mice) and business travel. In fact, in 2012, Mice and business travel accounted for 32 per cent of all outbound travel, totalling 4.9 million trips; this is set to increase by an estimated 62 per cent by 2017.
The report also highlights the rapid development of its Mice facilities along with easy access from worldwide destinations; India has emerged as one of the most sought-after Mice destinations. In 2012, inbound Mice and business travel accounted for 41 per cent of all inbound travel, totalling 2.9 million trips and is set to increase by an estimated 73 per cent by 2017.The Venetian Macao, a five-star luxury integrated resort, in Macau, has chosen IBTM India as a major partner this year as part of the brand’s attendance at the event, set to take place at the ITC Grand Chola Hotel, Chennai from September 3 to 5. Brendon Elliott, vice president of sales and resort marketing, Cotai Strip Macao, commented, “The Venetian Macao is delighted to be the official premier partner of IBTM India, as we continue our investment and brand awareness as Asia’s leading integrated resort for business and leisure within one of our most important markets, India. “It is important in a very competitive destination market place to remain top of mind to existing trade partners whilst developing new relationships and opportunities. The Venetian Macao is still very much a believer that people buy from people and participation at IBTM India reaffirms our position of connecting with our customers within their local market.” Following the successful launch of IBTM India last year, as an exclusive, invitation-only event, this edition will once again bring together 100 pre-qualified international and Indian buyers and exhibitors over a table-top environment at a 1:1 ratio. The 2.5 days will offer high-quality business meetings, education and networking events. Some 2,500 pre-scheduled appointments were conducted at IBTM India 2013, and this is set to increase to 3,600 this year.